But the coach has claimed only goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is assured of his ticket to Brazil after ex-Manchester City striker Balotelli was savaged in the Italian press for his performance in AC Milan’s Champions League elimination.

“I still haven’t decided anything,” Prandelli said. “The only guaranteed starter is Buffon. As far as the rest of the 23-man squad goes, all of the other players are under observation - including Balotelli.

“The door for (Antonio) Cassano has never been closed, but it is not greatly open either. The only starter for me is Buffon, for the rest of them we will have to assess their physical and mental condition nearer the time.”